Save A festive, spicy appetizer featuring jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer always brings smiles at holiday parties and is a crowd-pleaser every time I serve it.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- Dairy: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 60 g (2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- Meats: 6 slices thin-cut bacon, halved
- Spices & Pantry: 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, pinch of salt, pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (wear gloves for safety).
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Step 5:
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Step 6:
- Arrange poppers on the prepared baking sheet, cheese side up.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbling.
- Step 8:
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Pin it My family always gathers around to enjoy these spicy poppers together, making every holiday special.
Notes
For extra flavor, add finely chopped chives or green onions to the cheese mixture.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, baking sheet, parchment paper, toothpicks (optional), gloves (recommended for handling jalapeños)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese) and may contain pork (bacon) Always check labels for gluten if using processed bacon or cheese Those sensitive to spicy foods should use caution
Pin it These jalapeño poppers are the perfect balance of creamy and crispy for any holiday occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I safely handle jalapeños?
Wear gloves when slicing and deseeding jalapeños to avoid skin irritation and accidental contact with eyes.
- → Can I substitute turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used for a lighter, lower-fat alternative without compromising flavor.
- → What cheeses work best for the filling?
A combination of softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar provides a creamy and tangy filling with good meltability.
- → How do I make the bacon crispy?
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with bacon tightly and bake until the bacon edges are golden and crisp, about 18-20 minutes at 200°C (400°F).
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble them in advance and store covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving to maintain crispness.